Staying safe on the go: winter travel tips

Here in Minnesota, Gov. Mark Dayton just announced that all of Minnesota’s public schools would be closed Monday, Jan. 6. Why? The coldest temperatures in a decade are forecast to descend on much of Minnesota. Lows are expected to reach minus 30 degrees with wind chills predicted as low as minus 50 degrees in some parts of the state.

If you and your family have to venture out into the cold over the next few days, here are some great tips, compiled by Children’s Injury Prevention team.

Metal coffee can, candles, and matches to melt snow for drinking water

Brightly-colored bandana or fabric and/or a whistle to alert others of your location

Pencil/Paper – or even some crayons and games to keep kids occupied

First Aid Kit

A battery-powered or crank-powered light; replace batteries yearly

Large plastic bags and safety pins to keep your feet dry and insulated

Snacks such as energy bars or other non-perishable foods

When possible, drivers should also make room in their vehicles for a shovel, extra warm clothes, jumper cables, tow chains, blanket or sleeping bag, and a container of sand, salt, or cat litter for traction.

If you do get stranded, don’t panic. Stay with your car and don’t keep it running if your exhaust pipe isn’t totally clear of snow. If you do keep the car running, open a window slightly to reduce your family’s risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Lastly, COMPLETELY clean off all of your windows of snow and ice before you drive.

On the Road:

Keeping your family safe while on the road in icy and wet conditions takes a little extra planning. The Minnesota Department of Transportation recommends the following tips when you’re behind the wheel:

Turn on your headlights and ALWAYS wear your seat belt

Turn off your cruise control – if you hit a patch of ice, your cruise control will cause your wheels to spin faster, putting you in higher danger of losing control of your vehicle

Stay at least 5 car lengths back, and be aware of snow plows as they turn frequently, sometimes with little or no warning

Be comfortable with your vehicle’s braking system; never pump anti-lock brakes; instead, apply firm pressure and steer in the direction you want to go

Using a lower gear can help slow your car down

Make turns as square as possible; reducing the length of the arc on turns can prevent your car from sliding around corners

At your Destination:

As you and your family get out of the car, be aware of traffic passing nearby and be aware of the conditions under your feet. Assume there’s ice underneath the snow and take precautions so you don’t fall.

Point your feet out slightly like a penguin to increase your center of gravity

Bend your legs and walk flat-footed

Keep your hands out of your pockets; your arms can be used to help keep your balance

If you do fall, try landing on your side or bottom and don’t brace your fall with your knees, wrists, or neck; relax your muscles as you fall to reduce injury

And if you’re planning on going on frozen water, please stay safe and understand the conditions of the ice. The DNR has great tips on what to consider if you’re headed out on the lakes.

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